Listening to God and others demands intentionality.
The 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time invites us to reflect on our daily lives and
the myriad of voices that fill them. From the moment we wake up to when we
rest, we are surrounded by a cacophony of sounds – voices that encourage,
challenge, and sometimes discourage us. Yet, amidst this noise, how often do
we pause to listen to the most important voice of all: the voice of God?
In today’s first reading, the Prophet Isaiah presents us with a powerful
moment of divine encounter. Isaiah hears the Lord asking, “Whom shall I send?
Who will go for us?” Isaiah hesitantly responds, “Here I am; send me!” This
response is not just an act of courage but a profound demonstration of readiness
and willingness to serve. Isaiah’s immediate answer prompts us to reflect on our
responsiveness to God’s call.
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to become engrossed in our agendas,
leaving little room for spiritual reflection and attentiveness to God’s voice. We
often prioritize tasks, commitments, and responsibilities over quiet listening and
discernment moments. Isaiah’s example challenges us to reconsider our
priorities. Are we truly open to hearing God’s call in our lives? Can we give God
five or ten minutes daily, or are we too distracted by the world’s demands?
This week we are invited to step back from our busy schedules and carve
out time for stillness and create space to hear God’s gentle whisper amid the
chaos. This intentional pause allows us not only to discern God’s call but also to
listen to the voices of our loved ones who often require our attention and support.
By truly being present, we can respond to their needs with compassion and love.
Listening to God involves setting aside daily moments for prayer, meditation, or
quiet reflection. It requires being fully engaged in conversations, listening not just
with our ears but with our hearts. Doing so opens ourselves to deeper
connections and a better understanding of our purpose.
Dear brothers and sisters, this Sunday’s reading reminds us that God
continually calls each of us. His call is unique and personal, inviting us to
participate in His work in the world. Like Isaiah, we are invited to respond with
openness and courage. “Here I am; send me” can become our declaration of
readiness to engage with God’s mission. As we journey through this week, let us
be mindful of the voices that truly matter. Let us strive to balance our
responsibilities with moments of quiet reflection, ensuring that we are not only
hearing but actively listening to God’s call and the needs of those around us. In
doing so, we embrace our role as God’s messengers and instruments of love in
the world.Fr. Dominic Toan Tran, pastor